A proposal that would allow the state Department of Education to develop a curriculum for the nonsectarian study of the Bible in public schools is advancing in the House.

The measure sponsored by Rep. Mark Maddox, a Dresden Democrat, unanimously passed the House Education Committee on Monday. The companion bill is scheduled for a full floor vote in the Senate on Wednesday.

Under the bill, school districts would be required to teach the course with an approved textbook in a manner consistent with the state and federal constitutions.

The legislation prohibits the use of any religious test or association when assigning teachers for Bible courses.